Saudi Arabia’s sports sector is undergoing a profound transformation, one that goes far beyond a series of reforms. This is a full-scale revolution, reshaping the kingdom’s sporting landscape and influencing all levels of society. At the heart of this change is Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, whose ambitious vision has brought the country to the global stage.
One of the most significant milestones in this transformation was Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. While critics—particularly human rights advocates—have raised concerns about the kingdom’s human rights record, accusing Saudi Arabia of not meeting international standards, this criticism cannot overshadow the broader context of the country’s achievements. Saudi Arabia’s efforts to modernize and reshape its deeply traditional society into a more progressive and dynamic one should be recognized. Rather than resisting these changes, the international community should support and encourage the kingdom’s strides toward modernization, fostering an environment in which further positive developments can take place.
FOOTBALL IN SAUDI ARABIA
Football remains the most popular sport in Saudi Arabia, with the national team boasting three AFC Asian Cup titles—1984 (Singapore), 1988 (Qatar), and 1996 (UAE). The team has also qualified for the FIFA World Cup six times. Saudi Arabia allocates over $300 million annually to football development, underscoring the importance of the sport to the kingdom.
Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia’s most successful club, has captured the AFC Champions League title four times—in 1991, 2000, 2019, and 2021. Other notable Saudi clubs such as Al Ittihad, Al Nassr, and Al Ahli have also secured regional titles, with a history of championship and runner-up finishes in Asia.
WOMEN’S FOOTBALL LEAGUE
Women’s football in Saudi Arabia has seen rapid development. Officially launched in 2019, women’s football has made significant strides since the creation of the Saudi Women’s National Football League in 2020. The Saudi Arabian Football Federation initiated several programs in 2019 to promote the women’s game, and in 2021, the women’s national team was officially formed, making its international debut in February 2022. This progress reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader goals to empower women in sports and increase their participation in international competitions.
This sporting revolution is not just about hosting global events or winning titles; it is a fundamental shift in how Saudi Arabia views sports and their role in society. The country’s commitment to this transformation reflects a forward-looking vision, and as the kingdom continues to modernize, its sports sector stands as a symbol of change—a testament to the power of sport in shaping social progress.
